Police said gunfire erupted Dec. 19 when officers went to a house to talk to Bravard about the death of Michelle Russell. She was shot at a motel and her body was found hours later in a car near Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence. Bravard also had an outstanding Platte County warrant.

When officers were able to make their way into the home, Bravard was found suffering from life-threatening injuries and died several days later. Police said one officer also was struck in the leg during the shootout.